Best things to do in Bariloche
Find out more about those top places in Bariloche
Bariloche Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Things to Do, and Places to Visit in Argentina’s Lake District
Nestled along the stunning shores of Lago Nahuel Huapi, Bariloche is the heart of Argentina’s breathtaking Lake District. Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities, Bariloche has long been a top attraction for travelers seeking both natural wonders and a charming, historic town atmosphere. Whether you're visiting for world-class skiing or to explore the pristine wilderness that surrounds the town, Bariloche offers an abundance of things to do year-round.
Things to Do in Bariloche: Exploring the Great Outdoors
While Bariloche’s historic center, with its iconic Germanic-style architecture, remains a favorite for visitors strolling through its picturesque streets, the town's main draw is its stunning natural surroundings. Cerro Catedral, the towering massif that dominates the landscape, is famous for offering some of the best skiing and snowboarding in South America during the winter months. With a variety of slopes catering to all levels of expertise, it’s a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline rush.
However, Bariloche isn’t just a winter getaway. In the warmer months, the region transforms into a hiker’s paradise. The foothills of Cerro Catedral are covered in lush forests, offering a network of well-maintained hiking trails that range from gentle lakeside walks to challenging treks that lead to panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and peaks. Hiking around Lago Nahuel Huapi provides access to some of the most pristine landscapes in Argentina, with mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and wildlife sightings waiting at every turn.
Top Attractions in Bariloche: Exploring the Town and Beyond
In addition to the natural beauty, Bariloche boasts a wealth of top attractions for those looking to immerse themselves in both culture and adventure. The town itself is famous for its chocolate, and a visit to one of its many chocolate shops is a must. Bariloche is often referred to as the "chocolate capital of Argentina," so indulging in a local chocolate tour is one of the most delicious things to do here.
For those interested in sightseeing, the Civic Center in Bariloche is a perfect example of the town’s alpine architecture, which was influenced by its German settlers. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Nahuel Huapi, another historic site, is another must-see, featuring striking stone construction and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
If you're an adventure seeker, don’t miss a trip to Circuito Chico, a scenic route that takes you around the edges of Lago Nahuel Huapi. Along this route, visitors can stop at scenic viewpoints, enjoy a boat ride across the lake, or visit the Llao Llao Hotel, one of Bariloche’s iconic landmarks. The journey is a fantastic way to experience the area’s breathtaking landscapes in a single day.
Bariloche’s Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Beauty
Beyond the town, the area surrounding Bariloche offers countless opportunities for outdoor activities. Kayaking on the shimmering Lago Nahuel Huapi allows you to explore its crystal-clear waters while taking in views of snow-capped mountains. Alternatively, fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the lake’s abundant waters, known for their large trout and salmon populations.
For those who love wildlife and nature, the nearby Nahuel Huapi National Park offers a wide variety of flora and fauna. The park is home to several species of native wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. It’s an ideal location for eco-tourism and offers a peaceful retreat into one of Argentina’s most beautiful natural landscapes.
Conclusion: Why Bariloche Should Be on Your Travel List
Bariloche is one of Argentina’s most charming towns, offering an incredible blend of outdoor adventure and cultural charm. From the best skiing in South America in the winter to unforgettable hiking trails and breathtaking views in the summer, there is no shortage of things to do in this natural paradise. Whether you’re strolling through its chocolate-filled streets, skiing the slopes, or exploring the surrounding mountains and lakes, Bariloche is a destination that will leave you in awe.
If you’re planning your next trip to Argentina, make sure Bariloche is at the top of your list—it’s a destination that offers unforgettable experiences, no matter the season.
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Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi
Covering nearly 8000 square kilometers of some of Argentina’s most astonishing scenery, Parque Nacional Nahuel Huapi is undoubtedly Bariloche’s main draw. The park’s star attraction is the vast lake of the same name where you can take boat tours that provide spectacular vistas of the glacial peaks and start a variety of hikes, some of which are multi-day epics that take you deep into the wilderness. Beyond this, the rafting on the Río Limay is one of the park’s most thrilling activities.
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Cerro Catedral
Just southwest of Bariloche is Argentina’s premier snow sports resort, Cerro Catedral. Rising to nearly 2500 meters, the peak of the same name is one of the most spectacular in the area and is clad in the winter with many kilometers of perfectly groomed piste. During the summer months the resort is still worth visiting, as the Cerro Bellavista cable-car offers breathtaking views and is the starting point for Alpine hikes.
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Victoria Island
One of the most popular day tours from Bariloche is to the tranquil Victoria Island, just off the coast of the Llao Llao Peninsula. The pine and birch-clad island is simply enchanting and make sure to be on the lookout for pudu – the world’s smallest species of deer.
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German Tour
The southernmost reaches of Argentina were a popular destination for German immigration during the 19th and early 20th centuries and historical walking tours of Bariloche reveal this fascinating history. These tours offer insights into the town’s unique Bavarian architecture, its German cultural clubs and its dark history as a refuge for high-ranking Nazis following the Second World War.
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Food Tour
Try the gastronomic delights of Patagonia on ever-popular regional food tours in Bariloche, which let you get a taste for empanadas, fondue, smoked meats and wheat beers. Tours are conducted at a number of local restaurants and will leave you coming back for more.
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Mount Tronador
The snow-capped peak of Mount Tronador is the highest in the Bariloche region at 3500 meters and forms the breathtaking boundary between Argentina and Chile. Tours of the spectacular peak let you hike up Alpine hillsides and marvel at the ‘black glacier’, which is one of the area’s unique natural wonders.
